Пловдив (Plovdiv)

Bulgaria

Even though I came to a country that is known as land of roses, roses don’t always bloom in my life.

In addition to all the beautiful things it offers, travel was very often an escape for me. It was the way I dealt with challenging moments in life. Booking a plane ticket was enough to take my mind off the problem and focus on a new destination to explore. Let me inform you that trip to Bulgaria failed to resolve my problems or at least forget them for a while. Somehow they managed to onboard with me. And let’s face it, it has nothing to do with Bulgaria but solely with my state of mind.

Did I loved my stay here? Yes. Was it full of joy and happiness? No. Was it worth it? Yes. Have I managed to deal with my problems? No, they came back home with me. Sometimes it’s a blessing and a curse to feel everything so deeply. I try to find the beauty in each emotional breakdown, to move forward and let go. It’s not easy at all, but moments that bring tears to my eyes are part of my life too.

I visited a city I knew nothing about, I didn’t even bother to google. I didn’t have much of will to explore, and I pushed myself because I was convinced it would help me feel better. After more than an hour of walking (mostly in the wrong direction) I discovered it has a beautiful old town. Bad mood never lasts all day, a few hours at most. I decided to sit down for coffee and do nothing. I really thought I was in the wrong place and that coming to Plovdiv was a mistake. Then the waiter brought me coffee on which he drew a unicorn. He elicited a smile on my face. Everything at once seemed easier.

There’s just something about old towns that I’ve always been drawn to, and Plovdiv’s was no exception. Being the oldest living city in Europe means he passed through many ages, kingdoms, empires and all that left its mark. Plovdiv is a peaceful oasis with wonderful parks, artsy neighbourhoods, Roman ruins and beautifully painted mansions from 19th century.

I really liked getting lost in Kapana neighbourhood. Kapana means ‘the trap’ and comes from its network of streets, they are very short and arranged like a maze. There is no other place in the city with such a concentration of vital public activities and atmosphere.

I hope you like this little photo diary I put together to share my time adventuring around Plovdiv. Let me know if you have visited Bulgaria and how did you like it. If anyone has any feedback I’d be so appreciative to receive your comments and questions below. 

♥︎ Unta